POWERGRAMS

100% CONNECTED Waterway projects get boost in Jefferson, Mobile and Pike Four waterway restoration projects in Alabama Power's service territory are receiving more than $1.5 million in partner funding and in-kind services for stream bank and coastal restoration. The grants for projects in Jefferson, Mobile and Pike counties are part of the Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program. "These projects are successful because they are based on partnerships among conservation groups, businesses, schools, landowners and many others," said Matt Bowden, vice president of Environmental Affairs. "Since joining the partnership in 2006, more than 20 projects in Alabama have restored more than 100 acres of wetlands and 6,000 feet of creek and stream bank." The projects and locations are: • In Jefferson County, where the Freshwater Land Trust will clean and restore two acres on a former industrial site along the banks of Village Creek – removing concrete and industrial debris, restoring natural bank vegetation and beginning the first phase of a trail connecting a nearby residential area to an existing park. This site is a major connector for the county's Red Rock Ridge and Valley Trail System. • In Jefferson County, where Birmingham-Southern College will lead bank and stream restoration at Turkey Creek Nature Preserve along a 100-foot stretch to support the vermilion darter – a species of fish found only in Turkey Creek. The project will reduce sediment to increase the darter's habitat range and decrease population isolation. A streambank access point and pavilion will also be constructed. • In Mobile County, where Alma Bryant High School students will restore 20,000 square feet of oyster reefs and expand hands-on curriculum for aquaculture and marine biology students. The students will grow oysters and place them in an oyster preserve, monitor the success of their efforts and share information in the community. • In Pike County, where Troy University will spearhead the restoration of wetland and bank habitat on 15 acres of the campus in Janice Hawkins Park along a tributary to Persimmon Branch. 4 Turkey Creek Nature Preserve grant will aid vermillion darter. Volunteers will remove non-native plants and create wetlands to capture and filter polluted storm water before it enters streams. Out-of-date storm water infrastructure will be upgraded and a natural amphitheater constructed. Alabama Power participates in the Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program as part of Southern Company's partnership with the National Fish and "Since joining the partnership in 2006, more than 20 projects in Alabama have restored more than 100 acres of wetlands and 6,000 feet of creek and stream bank." Matt Bowden, vice president of Environmental Affairs Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the National Association of Counties and the Wildlife Habitat Council. This year, Southern Company, the regional lead sponsor of the program, is providing $202,439 to 11 projects that, combined with matching funds and inkind services, will result in an impact of nearly $3.5 million. "With the help of public, private and corporate funders, the Five Star and Urban Waters program supports dynamic conservation work across the country," said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. "These grants not only protect and restore the places that fish and wildlife need, but also enhance natural amenities for the entire community." To learn more about Alabama Power's environmental commitment, visit www.alabamapower.com and click on "Environment." By Brandon Glover

• Cover